Many restaurant owners and operators find themselves in the same problem at some point. Your point of sale system is old and out of date, or doesn't fit the needs of the business anymore. Switching POS systems can feel overwhelming and like a lot of work, but once you've done the groundwork it becomes a much smaller task.
The pre-work 📝
Why do you want or need a new POS? Have you considered which features are non-negotiable and which are nice-to-haves. Make a list of all the features you use and value the most, whether that is reporting, stock management, product lookup, split payments, or something else. Keep in mind the integrations that you use or want to use (like Bopple!)
1. Pricing 💵
Any new business software may have a cost involved. This may be a subscription fee, set-up price, data storage, a cost for add-on features or a transaction fee. Alongside the software, there may be hardware that requires a separate purchase. Take note of what your budget allows, your cost of sales, and your return on investment. It may be that a new POS system will make it easier to upsell or track wastage, which make it worthwhile in the long run.
2. Access ☁️
Do you need remote access or secure cloud storage as part of your POS solution? If you want to run reports, track sales and stock, and complete menu adjustments outside of the venue, then make sure your POS will allow you to do so. Cloud storage means that the old servers that need a technician to come out to troubleshoot are a thing of the past. You can complete your admin tasks anywhere, so you can focus on service once you're in the venue.
3. Service and support 🧑🔧
Speaking of service, this time you're the customer, so make sure that you're getting the level of service you need. Do you need help with set-up, training sessions for your team, or 24/7 support available if and when required. Consider where your POS support team is located; do you prefer to access phone support or are you happy to submit requests via a remote help desk?
4. Time 🚀
Is your current software slowing you down? Do you spend more time frustrated than productive? Then it's time for a change. If you feel like you don't have the time to switch, consider how much time it will save you to have tools that work for your business. Shortcuts that save your staff time will get your orders to your customers quicker. A POS that works for you will earn the time back many times over.
5. Reporting 📊
POS reports filter data so you can see employee performance, product popularity, and sales between locations. Schedule your best employees during peak hours and determine how many employees to staff per shift. A good POS system can automate the entire process of stocktake and even give you insight into who your best customers are. Consider what data will help your business grow.
There are lots of different POS solutions out there, so you're sure to find one that will fit your venue. Take the time to consider what you need, so you'll be able to make the decision and get back to working in your business.
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